- Choose at least a
5-6' tree grown to nursery standards.
- Select a site with
enough room for roots and branches to reach full size. Avoid overhead
and underground utilities.
- Prepare a planting
area as deep as the root ball and 3-5 times its diameter by loosening
the soil. Dig a hole in the middle of the area and set the root
ball even with the ground level.
- Use water to settle
soil and remove air pockets in planting area.
- Stake the tree to
flex with the wind only if tree is unable to stand up to wind.
- Spread a 2-3" layer
of mulch on entire area, but not within 6" of tree trunk.
How
to Plant a Tree Seedling
- Plant your seedling
as soon as possible — in cooler climates, before the first
frost. If first frost has occurred already, then plant your tree
indoors and transplant it once the chance of frost is over. (See
instructions below.)
- Prepare a planting
area where the seedling will have adequate space to grow into
a full sized tree both above and below the ground. (Pay special
attention to utility wires.)
- Place the root collar
(the place where the roots join the stem) slightly below soil
level.
- Settle soil with water
to avoid air space.
- Protect seedling from
damage caused by feet, lawnmowers, pets, etc.
How
to Plant a Tree Seedling Indoors (If weather precludes outside planting):
- Place seedling in
a container that is at least 6 inches deep and has several drainage
holes.
- Pack the soil around
seedling, completely covering the root collar.
- Water well after planting
and place seedling in a bright room; direct sunlight is best.
- Keep moist by watering
as needed and transplant outside when weather permits.
For more information
about the best planting times in your area, contact a local nursery.
Where
to Plant Trees for Energy Conservation and More
Planting trees around
your home will conserve energy and lower the cost of utility bills.
Three well-placed deciduous (leaf-losing) trees on the east, south,
and west sides of a home will shade it from summer sun and lower
cooling costs by 10 to 50 percent. In addition to saving money,
this conservation of energy directly translates to less carbon dioxide
produced at the generating plant that serves your house. Trees can
also produce savings in cold weather. Staggered rows of evergreen
trees on the northwest side of the house (or the side with prevailing
winter winds) will block harsh winds and lower heating costs.
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